Abstract
Cytolethal distending toxins are produced by a small but diverse group of bacterial pathogens. This newly discovered toxin family can cause a variety of mammalian cells to become irreversibly blocked in the G2 phase of the cell cycle. How this novel effect is accomplished is unknown but the study of these fascinating toxins promises to reveal new methods of host-pathogen interaction.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans / metabolism*
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Animals
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Bacterial Toxins / biosynthesis
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Bacterial Toxins / chemistry
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Bacterial Toxins / genetics*
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Bacterial Toxins / toxicity*
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Cell Line
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G2 Phase / drug effects*
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Gram-Negative Bacteria / metabolism*
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Humans
Substances
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Bacterial Toxins
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cytolethal distending toxin